Rita Jean Sweisgood

Tribute to Mrs. Sweisgood

I have far TOO many fond core memories etched into my heart & mind to recount them all here, but there were so many firsts that I experienced under the tutelage and love of Mrs. Sweisgood during my 5 years in her gifted class that extended far beyond my educational experiences.

From the 1st time using a computer in school; to thinking outside of the box; to getting to experience what it´s like to create & run a company in real life; to be stretched and challenged mentally and kindled with a love for learning when school was becoming boring to me; to seeing a part of the Romanoff royal crowned jewels; to hearing what it was like when the Berlin Wall fell; to being encouraged and cheered on by her when others opposed me because I am a female and African American; to returning to her classroom as a university intern learning how to teach; to staying in contact all through these years enjoying her wisdom, kindness, adventures, laughter, and love...

I will never forget a project & report I had to do for her World History class when I was 10 or 11 years old. I attempted to make Egyptian bread rolls following an "ancient recipe" as a compliment to my presentation... they were a fail as hard as rocks on the outside. But I´ll never forget...She actually tried one and made a joke and affirmed me relieving my shame in front of my classmates saying, "Well... maybe they liked petrified bread as much as they petrified their bodies... It could be truly authentic!" And she winked at me and said she loved my effort to go the extra mile to try to give us a more complete experience of my presentation.

Oh, how I love her, & I cannot thank the LORD enough for Mrs. Sweisgood and the deep lasting impact that her life has had on mine and consequently on every person I have ever impacted. Although I am so deeply saddened by the news of her departure and grieving for those she´s left behind that love and miss her, I can only imagine her face as she´s walking around in the glory of God...and I cannot wait to one day see her again!!

Forever Grateful You Were In My Life,
Jennifer(Jenny) White Hoarau

My deep condolences to the Schaeffer and Brisk families...Rita was my close friend for the past 30 years, after meeting in Vilano Beach as neighbors. I moved, but it was not a disruption to our long friendship.
I miss her loyalty, intelligence, and sharing many happy moments together. All through her health issues, she never complained...just made the necessary adjustments.
She loved her family and took pride in their achievements. May Her Memory Be Eternal.

Dear Mary, I am so sorry for the loss of your mom. She was a wonderful lady. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time ,God Bless

To Mary and all of Rita´s family, I am so, so sorry for your loss. Rita sounded like an amazing person. Wishing you all peace.